Adult Orthodontics
A smile is equally important at any age
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Braces may seem like an adolescent rite of passage but are increasingly being used for adults. Adult patients desire quick results with the least expected discomfort. Healthy and stable teeth can be moved at any age hence demystifying the misconception that braces are only for children and adolescents.
Primarily function and secondly aesthetics is the determining factors involved in treatment for adults. The mouth is forever a dynamic environment from the day we are born to the day we pass on. Like a flower we grow and blossom and then perish. Therefore a dynamic mouth is always working all day throughout life, day in and day out. Along the way we may lose some teeth either due to decay, gum disease, wear and tear and various forms of trauma.
You may also have crowding of teeth or spacing of teeth depending on the relationship between teeth and your jaws, this can also be due to hereditary issues. We can improve the position of your teeth in order to allow for appropriate restoration due to the above mentioned conditions.
Modern improvements in the orthodontic profession make it easier and worthwhile to get that desired smile.
Spark Clear Aligners
These are “nearly invisible” clear aligners and provide a more comfortable treatment experience than conventional metal braces.
Conventional Metal Braces
Also known as railway tracks, a traditional method of straightening teeth which involves metal brackets and wires providing gentle constant force over a long period of time.
Clear/Ceramic Braces
Similar to metal braces but are made from clear tooth coloured material to match the teeth. These cost slightly more.
Orthognathic surgery
Also known as jaw surgery, is a surgical manipulation of the jaws which corrects the disharmony and imbalance of the upper and lower jaws. Treatment with orthographic surgery is carried out in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.
Retainers
Custom made to keep teeth in their new and corrected position after braces. We offer both fixed / permanent and Essix clear retainers.
FAQs
- HOW DO I GET STARTED?
- HOW MUCH DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT COST?
- CAN MY MEDICAL AID COVER?
The orthodontic journey begins with a call to our practice and our front desk will book an initial appointment where records (x-rays and photographs) are taken for assessment and thereafter, a discussion with the Orthodontist for treatment recommendations.
Treatment costs vary according to the complexity of the case and ideally, our practice will inform you of the expected cost of treatment after the Orthodontist’s assessment and treatment plan.
Not all medical aids provide orthodontic cover. Depending on your medical aid, some have stipulated age limit policies while others offer a lifetime or once off benefit which limits
cover to a one time only pay off. Whatever the case, pre-authorisation is sought before commencing treatment for more informed decision making and planning
- HOW LONG WILL MY TREATMENT LAST, WILL IT TAKE LONGER BECAUSE I AM OLDER ?
- WILL I NEED A RETAINER?
- WILL I STILL BE ABLE TO EAT NORMALLY?
Adult teeth are more set in the bone unlike younger patients and as such take longer to move.
Yes. For best results after treatment, retainer wear is necessary to maintain a good smile for longer and are worn according to the Orthodontist’s recommendation.
Like any other adjustment in life, the first few days are expected to be the toughest. Teeth will feel sensitive the first few days and soft foods are best as the teeth adapt and also for the rest
of treatment e.g mashed potatoes, soft vegetables, pasta, rice. You can still enjoy your fruit such as apples but sliced into small pieces and chewed with the back molars
